KobbyJosvan

Author: Kobby Josvan

  • Rastafarian student ‘rejected’ by Achimota School excels in 2023 WASSCE

    Rastafarian student ‘rejected’ by Achimota School excels in 2023 WASSCE

    Tyrone Marhguy, the young Rastafarian who was denied admission to Achimota School because of his dreadlocks, has made a triumphant return to the spotlight, this time not for controversy but for academic excellence.

    In a remarkable turn of events, Marhguy has aced the West African Senior Secondary School Examinations (WASSCE), scoring an impressive 8 As.

    His rejection by Achimota in 2021 ignited a nationwide debate and a social media storm, with accusations of discrimination against Marhguy and fellow student Oheneba Nkrabea.

    The issue escalated to the courtroom, culminating in a landmark victory for the students.

    The Human Rights Court ruled in favour of Marhguy and Nkrabea, calling the school’s policy towards dreadlocks unjustified and an infringement on their religious rights.

    This victory has, however, been eclipsed by Marhguy’s recent academic feat. A viral photo of his alleged WASSCE results has sent social media buzzing once again, showcasing his exceptional performance across eight subjects.

    While neither Marhguy nor Achimota School has officially confirmed the results, the news has undeniably sparked both congratulations and renewed discussion about the initial controversy.

  • No Ghana Card, No Salary: public sector workers warned

    No Ghana Card, No Salary: public sector workers warned

    Ghana’s Controller and Accountant General Department (CAGD) has issued a stern warning to public sector workers, declaring a new policy that emphasizes the importance of possessing a Ghana Card for salary disbursement.

    In a bid to streamline public sector operations and ensure accountability, the directive states that individuals without a valid Ghana Card will not receive their salaries beginning from February 2024.

    According to the department, salaries of workers on its payroll who are yet to furnish the department with their NIA numbers will be seized.

    This decision by the department comes on the back of a series of meetings with relevant stakeholders which agreed on timelines to ensure special registration for government workers without NIA numbers.

    A statement issued and signed by the Deputy Controller and Accountant-General, Wisdom Komlan Messan, made known that the NIA has since September 4, 2023, opened its offices nationwide for registration of qualified Ghanaians aged 15 years and above, including the targeted Public Sector Employees on government’s payroll.

    This is a new directive issued by the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD) as part of measures to help cut out ghost names on the government’s payroll.

  • GTA honours Okyeame Kwame for contribution to Ghana’s tourism industry

    GTA honours Okyeame Kwame for contribution to Ghana’s tourism industry

    Award winning Ghanaian rapper, Okyeame Kwame has been honoured by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) at this year’s National Tourism Awards held at Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) recently.

    The honour was in appreciation of Okyeame Kwame’s commitment and contribution to Ghana’s tourism industry particularly in the promotion of Made-in-Ghana products.

    A citation given to him reads, “For your consistency and enormous contribution in spearheading the purchase of Made-in-Ghana goods and services to promote the Ghanaian culture and national identity, you are being honoured with this award.

    “It is admirable that your distinctive dress sense, which embodies both modernity and tradition, have inspired young people in Ghana to adopt the African Sartorial dress style and encourage them to wear Ghanaian clothing.

    “The Ghana Tourism Authority has acknowledged your vision and bestowed upon you an honour today in recognition of your contribution to Ghana’s tourism sector”.

    As a musician, Okyeame Kwame has been at the forefront and used his platform to promote the patronage of locally produced goods.

    And in line with the commitment, Okyeame Kwame released the Made In Ghana album in 2019 to promote Ghana’s culture and heritage.

    Over the years, the National Tourism Awards has endeavoured to acknowledge and honour individuals and entities who have made significant contributions to the development of the tourism industry in Ghana.

    It was established by the Ghana Tourism Authority in 1997 as one of its flagship events of the GTA and it sets the tone for high standards in service delivery among practitioners in the tourism sector.

     

  • ‘Fame is punishment’, says Rapper Blaqbonez (Video)

    ‘Fame is punishment’, says Rapper Blaqbonez (Video)

    Famous Nigerian rapper Emeka Akumefule, aka Blaqbonez, has described fame as “crazy punishment.”

    He said “normal” people who are wealthier than celebrities don’t go through the stress celebrities go through because of fame.

    The ‘Like Ice Spice’ crooner lamented that he can’t have “actual fun” in Nigeria because he is famous.

    Speaking in the latest episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast hosted by Joey Akan, Blaqbonez said, “I think fame is a punishment. Normal people can have all the money in the world, and drive a way bigger car than I would drive. But in traffic, everybody will leave them and focus on me. Why?

    “Now, if I walk into a restaurant, everybody is on me. I can’t even do those basic things. Normal people can have 50 times my money, wear a regular T-shirt and just stroll. Nobody is checking what type of ring, or chain he is wearing or how fresh he is looking. No human being cares. They just go straight to the world to buy whatever they want. Enjoying whatever experiences.

    “I can’t even go out in Nigeria to have actual fun. I must be Blaqbonez. It feels like a crazy punishment. Other people who have way more money have a much easier life than me. I have to be hiding.”

    Real name, Emeka Akumefule, Blaqbonez, who is signed to Chocolate City is widely admired for his distinct rap style as well as his creative ingenuity.
    In 2019, he was profiled by The New York Times as one of the new guards of Nigerian music. He is widely known for his controversial self-proclaimed status as the “Best Rapper in Africa” (abbreviated as “BRIA”).

    Blaqbonez dropped his debut album “Sex Over Love” in 2021.

  • Massive turnout at Medikal’s maiden concert “Planning & Plotting” | Videos

    Massive turnout at Medikal’s maiden concert “Planning & Plotting” | Videos

    Thousands of music lovers trooped to La Palm Hotel on the 16th of December 2023 to witness the sensational Rapper Medikal take the stage for an unforgettable night of Ghana music.

    The star-studded event featured electrifying performances from some of Ghana’s finest musical talents, with heavyweights like Shatta Wale, Bisa Kdei, Kofi Mole, Efya, Asaaka Boys, and rising sensations Xlimkid and Olive the boy.

    Medikal, the man behind this grand concert, had a grand vision for the night – a charitable event that didn’t only entertain but also made a positive impact on the community. In a previous media interview, the rapper expressed his commitment to making this concert an annual affair dedicated to supporting various charitable causes.

    It’s not only about the music – this year, Medikal released a chart topping album featuring big names like Sarkodie, Mayorkun, and Bisa Kdei. The crowd at La Palm Hotel were treated to live renditions of these hits, taking the concert to a whole new level of happiness.

    As the night unfolded, the audience were held captive by the magnetic performances, with each artist delivering their signature style. The Asaaka Boys brought their infectious energy, Efya’s soulful melodies captivated hearts, and Kofi Mole’s lyrical prowess left fans craving for more.

    In a surprising turn of events, new sensations Xlimkid and Olive the boy stole the spotlight, proving that the future of Ghanaian music is in capable hands. Their performances were met with thunderous applause, marking the beginning of what promises to be illustrious careers.

    But that’s not all on Medikal’s agenda – this concert served as a prelude to his highly anticipated debut UK concert scheduled for May 2024 at the prestigious O2 Indigo. The rapper has his sights set on global domination, and if this local spectacle is any indication, fans across the pond are in for a treat.

    As the night came to a close, Medikal expressed gratitude to the fans, artists, and everyone who contributed to the success of the concert. With the promise of an annual event for charity and the anticipation building for the UK concert, it’s clear that Medikal’s influence in the music industry is on an upward direction.

  • Emeka Ike discloses his struggles with depression amid marital struggles

    Emeka Ike discloses his struggles with depression amid marital struggles

    Nigerian actor Emeka Ike, 56, recently opened up about his prolonged struggle with depression stemming from marital issues.

    Speaking on Channels Television’s Rubbin’ Minds, Ike revealed that he had faced unjust criticism and shame during a challenging period in his marriage, leading him to take a hiatus from acting to protect his mental well-being.

    In the interview, Ike expressed the emotional toll of being wrongly accused and condemned for actions he did not commit in the midst of his marital crisis. He explained that the public scrutiny and unfounded criticism pushed him to the point of depression, prompting him to withdraw from the spotlight until he could understand and address the underlying issues affecting him.

    The actor highlighted the significant challenges within the Nigerian movie industry as a contributing factor to his absence from the film scene.

  • Let’s learn to appreciate and support our own talents – Prince David Osei to Ghanaians

    Let’s learn to appreciate and support our own talents – Prince David Osei to Ghanaians

    Ghanaian Actor and producer, Prince David Osei has added his voice on the “Play Ghana Initiative”.

    The Creative Arts Agency (CAA), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MoTAC) and corresponding stakeholders announced the Play Ghana Initiative.

    The move according to CAA Director Gyankroma Akufo-Addo will help to promote the entertainment industry as she appealed for media houses and recreational centres to prioritise Ghanaian music this “detty December” and “forever” so tourists can experience the country’s choice music and take them along to their home countries.

    Many Ghanaians, especially celebrities have reacted to the “Play Ghana Initiative”.

    In a statement posted in his Facebook, the award-winning actor stated that the “Play Ghana Initiative” cannot be achieved unless Ghanaians change their mindset.

    Prince Osei said, Ghanaians should learn to appreciate and support our own talents, just as Nigerians do.

    “This issue goes beyond the platform provided by PLAYGHANA. Until we change our mindset, show love, and pay more attention to our musicians, actors, sportsmen, and other creatives, nothing will change.” He said.

    Adding to that, it is disheartening  to see Nigerians streaming Ghanaian musician songs and movies more than Ghanaians.

    “This is a reality we must acknowledge. Artists like Black Sheriff, King Promise, Sark, Stonebwoy, Gyakie to mention but few, have witnessed their music being streamed more in Nigeria than in Ghana.”

    “Furthermore, as an actor, I have come to notice that Nigerians tend to stream my movies more than Ghanaians. It is disheartening to see that a significant portion of the views on some of my movies on YouTube , reaching over 1.5 million, come from Nigeria specifically.” He added.

    Read the full statement below

    Dear fellow Ghanaians,
    I want to take a moment to address a subject that I believe requires our attention.

    It is regarding the support and appreciation we offer to our creative industry, specifically in the realm of music and entertainment.

    It is no secret that our neighboring country, Nigeria, has gained tremendous global recognition for their music.

    They have managed to market and promote their music effectively, captivating audiences all over the world. In the era of social media, proper marketing is crucial to ensure the impact and success of our creative endeavors.

    Even if the DJs were to stop playing Nigerian music at parties and events, Ghanaians would still stream Nigerian music worldwide.

    This is a reality we must acknowledge. Artists like Black Sheriff, King Promise, Sark, Stonebwoy, Gyakie to mention but few, have witnessed their music being streamed more in Nigeria than in Ghana.

    Furthermore, as an actor, I have come to notice that Nigerians tend to stream my movies more than Ghanaians. It is disheartening to see that a significant portion of the views on some of my movies on YouTube , reaching over 1.5 million, come from Nigeria specifically.

    Ghanaians should learn to appreciate and support our own talents, just as Nigerians do.

    This issue goes beyond the platform provided by PLAYGHANA. Until we change our mindset, show love, and pay more attention to our musicians, actors, sportsmen, and other creatives, nothing will change.

    In this era of social media, we cannot force anyone to listen to a certain kind of music or watch specific movies.

    However, we can make a difference by shifting our focus towards our own local talents and giving them the love and support they deserve.

    Let us break free from the influence of foreign telenovelas that constantly air on our screens. Our families have become accustomed to them, but it is up to us to change this trend.

    Only through appreciation and support can we uplift and celebrate our own celebrities and superstars.

    I urge you all to join me on this journey of embracing and magnifying the rich talents that we possess as Ghanaians.

    Together, we can make a difference and bring forth a brighter future for our creative industry.
    Thank you, and may God bless us all.

    Sincerely,
    H.E PRINCE DAVID OSEI

  • MUSIGA adopts amendments to its Constitution at 2nd Biennial Conference

    MUSIGA adopts amendments to its Constitution at 2nd Biennial Conference

    The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has adopted amendments to its constitution at its 2nd Biennial Conference in Accra.

    The conference which was attended by MUSIGA executives from all over the country was opened by the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Honorable Mark Okraku Mantey.

    In his speech, the deputy minister charged MUSIGA to uphold good governance in their operations with the right culture to ensure unity. He urged the new leadership to be innovative to ensure that the Union attracts the current crop of musicians as well curated brand.

    Touching on the theme, “Positioning MUSIGA for Growth in a Digital Age,” Hon. Okraku Mantey said the theme is appropriate and must guide the work of the Union.

    The deputy minister also requested a letter from the Union for submission to the Ministry of Education on the need to reintroduce music education at the basic school level in response to a plea by the MUSIGA President, Bessa Simons.

    He also assured MUSIGA that the Ministry will pursue the Union’s plea for a tax waiver for imported personal musical equipment of musicians.

    The UNESCO Culture Specialist, Carl Ampah who represented the UNESCO Country Representative, Edward Moukala urged the Union to forge appropriate partnerships to achieve their objectives.

    MUSIGA President, Bessa Simons called for unity and assured members of a transparent and dynamic leadership.

    Other speakers at the conference included former MUSIGA President Mrs Diana Hopeson and highlife musician Ben Brako.

    (Source: Ahuma Bosco Ocansey)”

  • Fashion retail makes its mark in Roy Morgan’s most trusted brand list

    Fashion retail makes its mark in Roy Morgan’s most trusted brand list

    In Roy Morgan’s ranking for the most trusted brands spanning the twelve months leading to September 2023, fashion retailers and brands make their mark. Australian fashion retail store Myer has secured the seventh spot in the list. Roy Morgan, an independent Australian entity specialising in social, political market research, and public opinion statistics, hosts the Trusted Brand Awards.

    These honour exceptional companies and brands across various industries, spotlighting the high levels of trust these entities command in comparison to their competitors within their specific categories.

    Another prominent player, Big W, a chain of discount department stores, initially held the seventh spot but has slipped two places, maintaining a position within the top ten most trusted brands at number nine. This places it ahead of Australia Post, positioned tenth, and behind Toyota, which advanced by two spots.

    Among the top ten, Kmart stands as a fashion retailer in the list, steadfastly occupying fifth place, leading ahead of Apple and trailing closely behind Aldi. Meanwhile, Bunnings, an Australian hardware giant, disrupted the dominance of supermarkets, surpassing Coles to claim the second spot as the most trusted brand, with Woolworths, the largest chain of supermarkets in Australia, securing the top position.

    Kindly follow Kobby JosVan on all social media platforms for all your credible updates | Read more on www.kobbyjosvan.com

    Source |  Apparel Resources News-Desk

  • Don’t let “Overthinking” stop from seeing the opportunities around you – Kofi Kinaata

    Don’t let “Overthinking” stop from seeing the opportunities around you – Kofi Kinaata

    Kinaata’s uplifting song ‘Overthinking’ offers motivation amidst life’s challenges

    In the spirit of the holiday season, renowned Ghanaian Artiste, Kofi Kinaata has gifted his fans with a soul-soothing melody titled ‘Overthinking.’ The multiple award-winning Artiste, who is known for his distinctive storytelling through music, admonishes listeners to accept the ups and downs of life and see opportunities in every misfortune.

    Stream Here: https://fanlink.to/kofikinaataoverthinking

    In ‘Overthinking,’ Kofi Kinaata encourages fans to embrace joy regardless of their circumstances as depression is mostly caused by overthinking. He further advises against corruption as Galatians 6:7 clearly states that, one reaps what he sows and you’ll lose what you stole. The song serves as a timely reminder to take a step back, appreciate the present moment and taking time to live life with care and not be in a rush to die early.

    As the world grapples with various uncertainties, Kinaata’s musical offering comes as a beacon of hope, resonating with the essence of the Christmas season.

    Mindful of the season, he spiced the instrumentation which was produced by Abochi and Skonti, with brass band, typically known of those in Takoradi who celebrate the season with the masquerade and brass band.

    Fans have already expressed their gratitude for the timely release, viewing ‘Overthinking’ as a thoughtful Christmas present from Kofi Kinaata. The song not only showcases the Artiste’s musical versatility but also reinforces his commitment to uplifting and connecting with his audience on a deeper level.

    Kindly follow Kobby JosVan on all social media platforms for all your credible updates | Read more on www.kobbyjosvan.com